Chhath Puja 2026: Who Observed the First Fast for Chhathi Maiya? Know the Story Behind It | Read Here

Chhath Puja 2026

Several fasts and festivals are celebrated every year, which are dedicated to different deities. At the same time, Chhath Puja holds special significance as the only festival where both the setting and rising Sun are worshipped. This sacred festival is dedicated to the worship of Shun and Chathi Maiya (protector of children). On this day, observing a strict fast with devotion and dedication is said to bring blessings for offspring, family well-being, and peace at home.

Who Observed the First Chhath Puja?

As per mythological beliefs, the first Chhath fast was observed by Goddess Sita. It is said that after their return to Ayodhya, a sage told Lord Ram that he had sinned by killing a Brahmin (Ravan). To get free from this sin, the sage advised offering arghya on the sixth day of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Kartik, to the setting Sun, and the next day to the rising Sun, while observing a strict fast. Therefore, Goddess Sita performed the first Chhath Puja to seek blessings from Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.

Another religious story connected to this is that Draupadi also observed the first Chhath. In the Dwapar Yug, the Kauravas defeated the Pandavas by cheating and insulting Draupadi in front of everyone. Draupadi and the Pandavas lived in the forest for many years. During that time, Draupadi performed intense penance to pray for her husbands’ strength, justice, and their rights. Her devotion is said to have brought prosperity and divine favour back to their lives.